Future Metro West recycling and transfer center

The future recycling and transfer center will be designed with many state-of-the-art features found in modern facilities like the North Transfer Station in Seattle, Washington. This station was designed with sustainability in mind, with features to improve safety, reduce energy demand and minimize noise, dust and odors. Photo: courtesy of King County Solid Waste Division

Building a community asset

The new facility will be more than a place to collect waste, it will be an asset to the people of the region. The community’s input will inform the design of the facility so that its features will provide the greatest community benefits. These could include community gathering places, public art, an education space, a reuse store, or bicycle and pedestrian pathways. Photo: courtesy of King County Solid Waste Division

Expanding access to services

A new facility serving the west side of the region would make it more convenient for people to drop off bulky items, food scraps and recyclable or reusable materials. It would also provide a safe place to bring hazardous wastes that are a danger to human health and the environment.

The people of the region throw away 2.4 million tons of garbage each year. Much of this waste goes to a transfer station where it gets sorted before being sent to its final destination.

These sites take in waste from commercial companies as well as materials from private residents who need to safely dispose of bulky items or wastes that are harmful to people and the environment.

For the people who live and work in Washington County, it is difficult to access the transfer stations in Oregon City and Northwest Portland. Metro is planning to improve the garbage and recycling system by locating and building a new, state-of-the-art facility. A potential site has been identified in Cornelius and the Metro Council will decide whether to purchase it by the end of 2020.

But first we need to hear from you. What would a modern waste facility look like to you? How could this large investment benefit your community? Your input will shape what comes next for the Metro West recycling and transfer center.

Apply by May 31

Metro and Centro Cultural seek youth and adults to join two community advisory groups for the project. Add your voice.

News

Metro Council voted today to approve a plan that will shape the way greater Portland manages the garbage and recycling system for the next 12 years – including everything from the way products are made to how to shape jobs in the industry.

On Thursday, February 28, the Metro Council will consider adoption of the proposed 2030 Regional Waste Plan. The plan is the blueprint for how Metro, local governments and others involved in managing greater Portland’s garbage and recycling system will focus efforts and resources in the coming 12 years. It is the final opportunity for public comment before the plan goes up for a Council vote.

Whether your roots in the region run generations deep or you moved to Oregon last week, you have your own reasons for loving this place – and Metro wants to keep it that way. Help shape the future of the greater Portland region and discover tools, services and places that make life better today.